Ball offers Airmen Italian culture immersion

Published June 23, 2015
By Airman 1st Class Deana Heitzman
31st Fighter Wing Public Affairs

AVIANO AIR BASE, Italy -- Putting on his service dress, he knows he is ready ... nervous, but ready.

Reflecting on the past three months of training, he adjusts his tie and smiles to his Italian partner, reassuring her about their upcoming performance.

The sound of classical music bellows through the arena as they walk on stage, their presence greeted by more than 500 sets of eyes. She curtsies, he bows and they began a night of tradition and dancing.

The official procession kicked off the 17th Annual Debutant Ball, in which 13 male Aviano Airmen served as escorts and dance partners to their female Italian counterparts June 21, 2015, in Cordenons, Italy.

The ball dates back to the late 1800s where 18-year-old women, or debutants, reached the age of adulthood and were introduced into local society at a formal presentation.

Airmen from the 31st Fighter Wing have participated in the event for the past five years and this year's ball had the largest number of Wyverns participating.

"Being part of the Debutant Ball was an amazing experience," said Airman 1st Class Ramzey Yousef, 31st Communication Squadron commander support staff technician. "It was our chance to be part of a long tradition: the coming-of-age ceremony. It was up to us to make our partner's night perfect."

Perfecting the event did not happen overnight. Airmen have practiced twice a week since March and every day during the last two weeks. During these practices, they mastered the elegant maneuvers of the English and Viennese Waltz, as well as developed bonds with their partners.

"We were paired up based on our height," said Yousef. "My partner was very kind and spoke very little English, and I spoke very little Italian, so we made a deal to teach each other our languages. This helped us learn the dances better, and we became friends throughout the months of practice."

Yousef explained that the language barrier was a challenge to some participants, but he had a greater struggle.

"I have no rhythm," laughed Yousef. "While others were worried about communicating with their partner, I just focused on remembering all of the different dances and staying on beat. You have to pay attention while you dance. I was constantly thinking about my posture, hand placement, rhythm, dance routine and even my facial expression."

The night also showcased other professional dancing exhibitions, to include European tango, Waltz and the boogie-woogie. The night ended with gift and certificate presentations, and the final dance honoring the debutants with a "father-daughter" dance.

"Even with the long practices and the nerves, it was an opportunity of a lifetime," said Yousef. "Being immersed into this experience head first helped me understand Italian culture and language. I have more Italian friends and even better memories to hold on to because of an amazing night."